SONNY ROLLINS
Way Out West (Contemporary)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Contemporary has recently remastered in 20-bit sound the 1957 Sonny Rollins classic Way Out West. This recording, Rollins first trio effort without the use of piano, established Sonny as the top tenor saxophonist in jazz at that time. Rollins, joined by Ray Brown on bass and Shelly Manne on drums, displays an imaginative virtuosity that conveys a pervasive joyousness throughout the session.

The CD opens with a relaxed cover of the classic western tune "I'm An Old Cowhand." Rollins told his drummer that "I want that cat out on the range all the way," so Manne lays down a great clip-clop beat sounding like something played on coconuts straight out of a Monty Python movie. In addition, there a wonderful version of the medium tempo "Way Out West." Sonny's selection of tunes is brilliant, from the glorious ballad "There Is No Greater Love" to the smoking "Come, Gone." Rollins renowned sense of humor shines on every cut. The cover photograph of Rollins in full western gear is also a classic. Its obvious the band had a great time recording this album.

Critics consider Way Out West as Rollins' second best recording, behind only his classic Saxophone Colossus. Throughout Way Out West, Rollins sticks close to the melody, yet displays a seemingly limitless ability to invent new and meaningful things to say on tenor. The man is brilliant, and his music timeless. If you only purchase a few Rollins recordings, this should be one of them.

© 2000 - Ron Saranich